Winter Sports in Onondaga County
Winter in Syracuse isn’t just a season, it’s an adventure!
And this year, winter has truly delivered. By mid-February, Syracuse has already seen more than 120 inches of snow, making this one of the snowiest seasons Onondaga County has experienced in over a decade.
In other words, the conditions are just right. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker chasing fresh powder, a nature lover drawn to quiet, snow-covered trails, or simply looking to try something new, Onondaga County transforms into a true winter playground with activities for every skill level. So bundle up, step outside, and discover why Syracuse is the perfect winter getaway.
Snow Shoeing
Snowshoeing is a great way to explore the outdoors while getting a low-impact workout. If you want to take in the beauty of the snow-covered landscapes at your own pace, this is the perfect activity for you. Don’t own snowshoes? There are places to rent them and have some fun.
Beaver Lake Nature Center in Baldwinsville offers rentals for $5 per hour, weather permitting. Rentals are available from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm, with returns by 4:00 pm. Enjoy 2 snowshoe trails, the Hidden Hills Primitive Trail (1.6 miles, moderate) and the Woodland Trail (1.1 miles, easy), and 4 multi-use trails, the Bog Trail (0.8 miles, easy), Hemlock Hollow (0.4 miles, easy), Lakeview Trail (0.3 miles, easy), and Pine Meadow (0.5, easy). No matter which length trail you choose, be sure to watch for wildlife, waterfowl, and stunning views of the lake. Check out the events calendar for special events.
Highland Forest County Park in Fabius, which is situated about 20 minutes outside the city of Syracuse is another trail where you can rent snowshoes for $10 for adults or $5 for 15 and under, weather permitting. Rentals are available from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm, with returns by 4:00 pm. With 5 trail options, the Phil Suters Memorial Main trail (8.54 miles), Limestone Trail (0.8 miles), Torbert Trail (1.78 miles), Kirnan Trail (3.51 miles), and Finger Lakes North County Trail (4.8 miles), you’ll be able to trek through the picturesque trails and immerse yourself in the winter wonderland.
Onondaga Lake Park allows snowshoeing on the Shoreline Walking Trail or West Shore Trail. Rentals are not available, so make sure you bring your own equipment.
Green Lakes State Park allows snowshoeing at their state park as well, however you will need to bring your own equipment aswell.
Cross-Country Skiing
If downhill skiing isn’t your thing but you still want to enjoy the thrill of skiing, cross-country skiing is a wonderful way to stay active while soaking in stunning winter scenery. The places mentioned above are also great for this long-distance sport.
Beaver Lake Nature Center offers almost 6 miles of cross-country skiing trails, which include the Lake Loop Trail (3 miles, moderate), Three Meadows Trail (1.5 miles, moderate), and Deep Woods Trail (1.4 miles, easy) as ski-only trails. Feel free to use their multi-use trails to enjoy with others.
Highland Forest has 40 miles of XC ski trails during the snowy months, half of which are groomed for all ability levels, and 3 skate ski loops. Ski, boot, and pole rentals are available along with day or season passes. Enjoy 11 trails and loops from 0.5 to 8.53 miles in length.
Onondaga Lake Park does not offer rentals, but XC Skiing is welcome and is a popular activity during snowy months. The Shoreline Walking Trail and the West Shore Trail accommodate XC Skiers.
Downhill skiing / Snowboarding / Tubing
Craving a little more adrenaline? Onondaga County offers great options for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
Labrador Mountain and Song Mountain (Tully, NY) are ski resorts that offer nearly 20 miles of trails. Best of all, a single-season or multi-day pass gives you access to both mountains! After a day on the slopes, warm up at Heuga's Alpine at the base of Song Mountain or enjoy live music at The Puffin Bird at the base of Labrador Mountain.
Just a little outside Onondaga County, travelers and locals alike can hit Greek Peak Mountain and Resort and experience 45 ski trails and 11 glades, 6 chair lifts, 2 surface lifts, a tubing conveyor lift, a beginners’ slope, and new and improved terrain parks. There's something for all ski levels. Greek Peak is an easy 45 minute drive just over to Cortland County!
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is a cherished winter tradition in Upstate New York. The Department of Environmental Conservation offers a great resource for those looking to experience this peaceful yet exciting sport. Check out popular ice fishing areas in Onondaga County.
Tully Lake for Panfish and Pickerel, Skaneateles Lake for Lake Trout, Panfish, and Pickerel, Oneida Lake for Panfish, Walleye, and Pickerel, and many other places throughout Onondaga County.
Ice Skating
Ice skating is a must-try winter pastime, and Syracuse has plenty of rinks to enjoy the fun. Consider one of the rinks below, or branch out further into Onondaga County.
Clinton Square Ice Rink (Downtown Syracuse) is an incredible experience as you ice skate with friends and family in Clinton Square under the city lights or in front of the Christmas tree. Admission for adults is $5 and junior admission is $3 for those 12 years and younger.
Sunnycrest Ice Rink (Syracuse NY) is an indoor rink that offers public skating both during the day and evening hours. Admission ranges from $3 to $5 depending on age.
Shove Park (Camillus, NY) is a local favorite that has open skating to the public. Check our their schedule and admission prices are listed on their website. This facility is cash only.
Horse-Drawn Sleighs
For a truly magical experience, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snowy trails of Highland Forest. Cozy up under a blanket and take in the beauty of winter without breaking a sweat!
Highland Forest County Park (Fabius, NY) and CNY Carriage Company team up to offer public sleigh rides from mid-December to mid-March. Reservations are required for individual rides at $10 per person with children 5 and under free. You can also book a private sleigh for $100. Rides last approximately 20 minutes. This is perfect for families or couples looking for a fun or romantic outing.
Winter is the perfect time to explore Syracuse and Onondaga County. Whether you're racing down the slopes, snowshoeing through the forest, or gliding across an ice rink, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season. Extend your trip and book a hotel throughout Onondaga County. If you haven't been here yet and you're a snow enthusiast this is your winter to visit Syracuse!
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